Sarah Boone, 47, has been sentenced to life in prison for the second-degree murder of her boyfriend, Jorge Torres Jr., in February 2020. The incident occurred in Winter Park, Florida, where Boone confined Torres in a suitcase during what she claimed was a drunken game of hide-and-seek. Despite his pleas for help, she left him trapped overnight, leading to his death by suffocation.
During the trial, prosecutors presented video evidence from Boone’s cellphone showing Torres struggling inside the suitcase, repeatedly stating he couldn’t breathe, while Boone laughed and accused him of infidelity. Boone argued that her actions were in self-defense, citing years of alleged abuse by Torres and claiming she suffered from “battered spouse syndrome.” However, the jury found her lack of remorse and failure to accept responsibility compelling, leading to her conviction.
Prior to the trial, Boone rejected a plea deal that would have resulted in a 15-year manslaughter sentence. Instead, she chose to go to trial, which concluded with a life sentence. At the sentencing, Torres’ family delivered emotional statements, expressing the profound pain and loss they have endured. Boone also spoke, referencing her own sufferings and alleging that social media attention prevented a fair trial.
The case has drawn significant public interest due to its unusual circumstances and the disturbing nature of the evidence presented. Boone’s defense filed a motion for a new trial, citing professional misconduct, but it was denied. She is expected to appeal the conviction.
